Jacob Burns Film Center Receives $50,000 Federal Grant

PLEASANTVILLE, NY — The Jacob Burns Film Center, Inc. in Pleasantville will receive a $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

The Burns is one of 126 arts organizations in New York to receive grants, which went to 855 recipients nationwide. The center will use its grant to sustain two staff positions essential to generating revenue which has been lost during the pandemic.

Rep. Nita Lowey, Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, announced the grant.

"The coronavirus epidemic has affected nearly every part of our nation’s economy, and this includes the world of arts and culture, which employs more than 5 million workers across the country,” Lowey said. “Keeping staff on and organizations afloat during this time of uncertainty has not been easy, and I’m so glad that these local groups will receive this grant funding. Art is a powerful mechanism for both children and adults to express their creativity and innovation, and it has the power to spark dialogue in our communities and affect social change. The funds granted from the CARES Act grants will support everyday operations, help sustain essential programs, prevent closures due to revenue loss, and ultimately boost the American economy."

Closed on March 13, the center furloughed employees in April across all departments and including senior management, with differing timelines to ensure consistency in essential operations.

“We are honored and grateful to the NEA for awarding this generous grant to support jobs and essential operations,” said Janet Benton, Acting Executive Director at the Jacob Burns Film Center. We are so appreciative of Congresswoman Lowey’s longstanding support, especially with The CARES Act funds which will help us preserve our vital and vibrant programs and offset the loss of earned income from the COVID closure.”

The Jacob Burns plans to reopen as soon as New York state officials permit. Meanwhile, check out the programs and resources on JBFC at Home.